Chopper for pharmacy preparations, probably Middle East, 1801-1900

Chopper for pharmacy preparations, steel, probably Middle East Chopper for pharmacy preparations, steel, probably Middle East

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Chopper for pharmacy preparations, steel, probably Middle East
Science Museum Group
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Chopper for pharmacy preparations, steel, probably Middle East
Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Chopper for pharmacy preparations, steel, probably Middle East, 1801-1900

Choppers were used by apothecaries, who diagnosed illness and prepared remedies. Middle Eastern apothecaries were some of the earliest recognised pharmacists. Islamic medicine formed the basis for medical education and practice in Europe throughout the Middle Ages. Tools such as this were used in every medical tradition. Similar items were used in pharmacies in England up until the 1940s. The chopper has now largely been replaced by modern machinery to enable mass production.

Details

Category:
Pharmacy-ware
Collection:
Sir Henry Wellcome's Museum Collection
Object Number:
A610659
Materials:
steel
Measurements:
overall: 61 mm x 230 mm .134kg
type:
cutting tool